Environment

The Modoc Plateau, at about 1400 METERS (4593 feet) above sea level, has had a long volcanic history, one that produced a landscape of lava flows, fissures and basalt plains (Moratto 8-9). The area, fed by Klamath River and its tributaries, has many lakes and streams. The major lakes are: Goose Lake, Clear Lake, Tule Lake, and the Lower Klamath Lake. Although a relatively harsh environment, characterized by long, harsh, snowy winters, it was also rich in plant foods, fish, waterfowl and large mammals (Stern 447).